The Nelson Evening Mail. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1369.

Nelson Evening Mail, Volume IV, Issue 37, 15 February 1869, Page 2

The Nelson Evening Mail. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 1369.

At a public meeting to take place tonight, it is to bo decided what steps are to be taken by the people of Nelson, with regard to the proposed visit of the Duke of Ediuburgh. We are aware that there is not a unanimity of feeling on this subject, and that it is urged by many people^ certainly not without some reason^ that we are not in a position to entertain a prince of the blood at the present tirae^ as, owing to the great depression that generally exists, we shall be unable to give him such a reception as he has a right to expect. Whilst fully admitting that the royal visit might have happened at a more favorable period, and that the bad state of the times iSj to a certain extent, an argu^ ment that may with much justice be brought to bear against it, we are still of opinion that, as H.RiH. is about to visit New Zealand, it is incumbent upon the people of Nelson, not to allow him to leave the colony without giving him an invitation to this province. With regard [ to the reception, we would certainly deprecate going to any unnecessary expense* i but we believe that at a comparatively small cost a hearty welcome might be shown to him, and his visit to Nelson rendered sufficiently pleasant to enable him to look back with much satisfaction upon the two or three days spent in one of the most beautiful provinces of New Zealand; Money is so scarce, say those who are opposed to an invitation being given to the Duke. Unfortunately experience compels us to admit the truth of the assertion, but we do think that on an occasion of this kind some little effort and sacrifice should be made on our parts, for we feel sure that if this opportunity be neglected, we shall, on consideration, upbraid ourselves with having displayed a want of loyalty to the Koyal Family of England. It is not for us to say what arrangements shall be made for the reception and entertainment of the Prince, no doubt many valuable suggestions on this subject will be made to-night, but we believe that they can be carried out at a very moderate expense, and it must not be forgotten that the money spent will not be lost to the province, but will only be put in circulation among those resident here. We trust that it will be shown at the meeting to-night, that Nelson is not behind any of the other provinces in its loyalty to the throne, and that it will be determined to give to the Duke of Edinburgh a hearty welcome and a reception in proportion to our means.